Hello,
My organisation may be reviewing the frequency of our own internal fire risk assessments (we do our own as we are qualified). We obviously wish to ensure that high fire safety standards are met but wish to expand the frequency of assessments. We would keep sleeping accommodation as yearly but may hope to move lower risk premises beyond every two years. We have many sites that have simple means of escape, are single storey, have low risks and some may have an in date landlord FRA already in place.
We would always ensure that assessments are undertaken if material changes to the building, including means of escape, occur or if there is a significant changes to the hazards, risks, occupancy or management (or if there was a fire).
As our team are 'building managers' we make regular site visits to our sites and we have the option (which we do) to review the condition of the building (like fire doors etc) whilst we are there and take appropriate action.
In between FRAs may I ask about the suitability (other than just adding value) of reviews and just what under the legislation what a review should entail. Does this effectively have to be a full assessment (and just called a review) - I note that the review PAS 79 (a very good document) still requires a full building inspection and staff interview and often takes the same amount of time to inspect and write up (and take remedial actions) as a standard assessment.
Legislative views would be appreciated - particularly based on experience (what goes wrong when frequencies are decreased), insurance and changing trends and industry standards.
Can a review just include updating the existing FRA and adding information to it - such as minor repairs/faults required, updates for the Action List or does it have to be fully written? Can this updated document just in the Fire Book as is (along with any required instructions to the occupants).
Just how long should the frequencies be (all other things being equal and standard risks apply) for :
1) Offices
2) Libraries (single storey, small)
3) Youth Centres
4) Highway Depots
5) Landlord managed properties with their own FRAs
6) Multiple occupancy buildings (several departments not connected and in defined areas and separate management)
7) Family Centres
Offices with over 150 staff and members of the public present
9) Adult education centres (possibly with cooking classrooms)
Yes the above is simplistic and every building must and would be assessed individually, based on prior experience of the site and FR findings, but your thoughts are welcome.
I believe we know what the correct process wold be but I would be amiss if I did not ask some sound industry experts.
Many thanks,